Description of this recipe:
This Cabbage Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, cabbage, beans, and tomatoes in a rich and savory broth. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will warm you from the inside out. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customization to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Why you will love this recipe:
You’ll fall in love with this Cabbage Stew for its simplicity, its depth of flavor, and its nutritional benefits. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and flavorful beans creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Furthermore, this stew is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying choice for the whole family. The recipe’s adaptability also means you can easily tailor it to your liking, adding different vegetables, spices, or herbs to create your unique version of this classic dish.
Ingredients:
- ▢ 1 lb Ground Beef – lean
- ▢ 1 Head of Cabbage – sliced
- ▢ 2 Yellow Onions – diced
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic
- ▢ 15 Oz Ranch Style Beans – canned
- ▢ 26 Oz Ranch Style Beans – canned
- ▢ 2 – 14.5 Oz Fire Roasted Tomatoes – canned
- ▢ 1 – 14.5 Oz Can of Water
- ▢ 1 ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Black Pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large stockpot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, ensuring even browning for optimal flavor. Drain any excess grease to keep the stew lean and healthy.
Step 2: Add the kosher salt and black pepper to the browned ground beef, stirring to fully combine. This seasons the beef and enhances the overall flavor of the stew. Now, add one can (14.5 oz) of fire-roasted tomatoes, stirring well to incorporate the tomatoes into the beef. The fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth to the stew, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low and begin layering the ingredients. Add a layer of sliced cabbage and diced onions over the ground beef and tomato mixture. The cabbage will soften and sweeten as it cooks, while the onions will add a savory base to the stew.
Step 4: Now, add both cans of ranch-style beans (15 oz and 26 oz) and the second can (14.5 oz) of fire-roasted tomatoes. The ranch-style beans provide a creamy texture and a boost of protein and fiber, while the additional tomatoes deepen the flavor of the stew.
Step 5: Add the remaining cabbage and onions to the pot, layering them evenly over the bean and tomato mixture. Finally, top it off with one can (14.5 oz) of water, ensuring that all the ingredients are partially submerged in liquid. This will help the stew simmer properly and prevent it from drying out.
Step 6: Cover the stockpot with a lid and simmer the stew on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue to simmer until the cabbage has completely softened and cooked down, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours. The cabbage should be tender and slightly sweet, and the stew should have thickened to a desirable consistency.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Cabbage Stew hot in bowls, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. It pairs perfectly with a side of warm cornbread for dipping into the savory broth. You can also serve it with a side salad or a crusty loaf of bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use bone broth instead of water.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a touch of tanginess.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or celery, to customize the stew to your liking.
- For a spicier stew, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (estimated per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
This Hearty Cabbage Stew is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a hearty dish to share with friends and family, this Cabbage Stew is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic dish!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The cooking time will remain approximately the same, but be sure to cook the poultry thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This substitution will slightly alter the flavor profile, but it will still be a delicious and healthy stew.
Q2: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, this Cabbage Stew can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef in a skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. Add all the remaining ingredients, stir to combine, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the cabbage is tender. Slow cooking enhances the flavors and creates an even more tender texture.
Q3: Can I freeze this stew for later?
A: Yes, this stew freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to leave some headspace in the containers as the stew will expand when frozen. The stew can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q4: How can I make this stew vegetarian or vegan?
A: To make this stew vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef. For a vegan version, omit the ground beef and ensure that the ranch-style beans are vegan-friendly. You can add plant-based protein alternatives like lentils, chickpeas, or diced tofu to make it a more substantial meal. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
A: Absolutely! This stew is very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to customize it to your liking. Carrots, potatoes, celery, bell peppers, and zucchini are all great additions. Add them along with the cabbage and onions, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure that all the vegetables are tender.
